Technical Officer on Research and Value-Chain Development

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Technical Officer on Research and Value-Chain Development
Location: Paramaribo
Country: Suriname
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been a key development partner of the Surinamese Government and its people since 199

• UNDP operates in over 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on three broad programmatic areas: Democratic Governance, Social Development, and Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resource Management. UNDP values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all personnel can contribute to its mission. The organization has a strong commitment to protecting the rights of marginalized populations and ensuring that all individuals have equal opportunities to participate in its programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer on Research and Value-Chain Development will play a crucial role in supporting the sustainable management and development of mangrove forests in Suriname. This position is part of the Protection, Restoration, and Sustainable Use of Mangrove Forest (PRSUMF) project, which aims to enhance the resilience of coastal communities through inclusive and gender-responsive coastal zone management. The officer will be responsible for conducting research and monitoring the National Forest Monitoring of Mangroves, developing sustainable value chains, and facilitating local dialogues on the sustainable use of mangroves. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including local communities, government departments, NGOs, and private sector partners, to ensure the successful implementation of project objectives. The officer will also contribute to knowledge generation and management, support project management and monitoring, and strengthen partnerships to achieve the project's goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Officer on Research and Value-Chain Development will have several key responsibilities, including:

• Promoting sustainable value chain development of mangroves by facilitating local dialogues and decision-making processes.
• Developing guidelines on value chains and sustainable economic extraction of mangrove forests.
• Identifying and providing skills development training to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
• Developing criteria for providing grants to MSMEs and managing the grant process.
• Mainstreaming gender and supporting equitable engagement in sustainable mangrove use.
• Providing technical support to expand the national mangrove monitoring system.
• Preparing research reports on value chain development and best practices.
• Supporting awareness and communication activities related to the project.
• Developing and maintaining relationships with stakeholders to ensure successful project implementation. 1
• Supporting project management by developing work plans, progress reports, and documentation for project meetings. 1
• Coordinating project activities to maximize efficiency and synergies with other project components.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Technical Officer position should possess the following qualifications:

• Advanced University degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental management, socio-economic studies, or related fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be considered.
• Applicants with a master’s degree are not required to have professional work experience, while those with a bachelor’s degree must have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in value chain development and MSME development.
• Proven experience in implementing projects related to community engagement in mangrove management is an asset.
• Experience working with donor organizations, governmental institutions, NGOs, or private sector firms is desirable.
• Strong computer skills and excellent writing abilities are essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as environmental management, socio-economic studies, or other relevant areas. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the aforementioned fields, combined with two years of relevant professional experience, will also be considered. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental management and socio-economic development related to mangrove ecosystems.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience for candidates with a bachelor’s degree. Those with a master’s degree are not required to have prior work experience. Relevant experience includes work in value chain development, MSME development, and community engagement in mangrove management. Proven ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and communicate effectively with project stakeholders is essential. Experience in supporting projects with donor organizations, governmental institutions, NGOs, or consulting firms is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in Dutch is required for this position, as it is the primary language of communication in Suriname. A working knowledge of English is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, and all applications will be treated with strict confidentiality. UNDP is committed to achieving diversity within its workforce and encourages all qualified applicants to apply, regardless of gender, nationality, disabilities, sexual orientation, culture, religious, and ethnic backgrounds. The organization does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process. The Technical Officer will work under the direct supervision of the Project Manager and will collaborate closely with various teams within the UNDP country office.